What does F.S.C mean ?
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international non-profit, multi-stakeholder organization established in 1993 to promote responsible management of the world’s forests. The FSC does this by setting standards on forest products, along with certifying and labeling them as eco-friendly.
What does CoC mean ?
The Chain of Custody (CoC) system allows the tracking of FSC certified material from the forest to the consumer. It is a method by which companies can show their commitment to the environment and responsible forest management. Only companies that have FSC chain of custody certification are allowed to use the FSC trademarks and labels to promote their products. The FSC label therefore provides a link between responsible production and responsible consumption and helps the consumer to make socially and environmentally responsible buying decisions.
Why do you use Larch?
X-Scapes use fresh cut native Larch timber because of its rich resin content, which helps naturally preserve it against the elements and it is relatively good for machining.
Do you use old reclaimed sleepers?
No, we do not use these, as they have been treated with creosote which contain toxins that can be harmful in the environments we create. X-Scapes source new freshly cut Larch sleepers.
How do you Manufacture the timber structures.
The manufacturing process starts with the breakdown of a final design into construction drawings. In the workshop we use this data to calibrate and process the individual timber components. Each piece of the jigsaw is faceted, angled and cut to length to bring the structure to the next stage of dry assembly to double check quality and ensure all measurements and angles are accurate. Finally it is broken down, edges sanded and colour treated ready for installation.
Why do you line the inside of your raised planters?
A impermeable membrane is included into our planters so moisture cannot leach into the timber sections that could cause rot and decay over a period of time.
There is not a structure that meets my needs in your collection range?
That ‘s not a problem X-Scapes offer a bespoke design service that can help you create your unique personalised seating structure. Please contact us to arrange a free consultation.
Are there options on different colour finishes available?
X-Scapes can provide a colour swatch of water based antifungal coloured stains, These can further protect the wood from fungus, algae and decay.
How do the Stains work
Stains are pigmented finishes that provide color and protection against UV rays. Some are water repellent and may include preservatives and mildewcide. They come in water-based formulations. Service life is typically one to three years, depending of the surface textures, exposure to elements and previous applications.
Are treatments environmentally friendly?
Yes, all our wood treatments contain no harmful elements that are dangerous to the environment. The products we use are water based and are child, pet and plant friendly.
Why X-scapes avoid concreting structures in the ground?
X-Scapes will not use concrete to secure their structures into the ground because this process does not allow the wood to breathe which will lead to the wood to decay and start rotting, this is something we want to avoid and why all our structures are constructed above ground level, if any elements are below ground level we will use a membrane and gravel to allow the wood cells breathe.(Hygroscopic)
How do you fasten your structures to the ground?
There are two options to fasten X-scapes structures to the ground.
1. With larger structures carrying more weight X-Scapes secure the walls to concrete pads that are set at key points into the substrate helping to distribute the structures load.
2. With smaller structures a ground bolt system is used securing the structure directly to the ground on a bed of gravel.
What is the ground bolt system and how does it work?
We secure all our structures using a ground bolt system. This is basically a 400mm- 600mm corkscrew shaped bolt that is hammered into the ground, then is fastened to the side of the structure wall to stop any lateral movement, keeping your structure safe and secure.
What's involved with the on site survey.
X-Scapes will carry out a site survey, before any construction work is carried out. with the use of specialised equipment we scan for any underground cables and pipes, before starting any groundworks and levelling of the site ready for the structure. If soil conditions dictate, a french drain / soakaway may be required to allow for any excess rainwater to drain away.
Larger structures carrying significantly more weight may require levelled concrete pads in key locations, ensuring a stable foundation. If electrical work for sockets or LED lighting are a chosen option for your design, a trench at least 600mm deep will be excavated from the nearest power source to the structure site to enable armoured cable to be safely laid. All regulations involving electric and water are strictly observed. And all works are carried out by fully qualified electrician.
What is the on site installation.
When X-Scapes carry out any installations they ensure a suitable foundation is constructed, and the structure is securely fastened to the substrate to avoid any movement, if any of the finishing touches have been selected they will be incorporated into the install. Finally a full inspection will be carried out before signing off and handing over to the client
As a reputable company our work is of the highest quality, and we offer our clients professional trades people that have been fully checked and verified.
The final phase after the installation is complete, is to address any areas that require remedial work, so the new addition blends into it’s new surroundings.
What is the ground bolt system and how does it work?
On the smaller structures the ground bolt system is recommended for use. This is basically a 400mm corkscrew shaped bolt that is hammered into the ground, then is fastened to the side of the structure wall to stop lateral movement, keeping your structure safe and secure.
What is DPC ?
This is a called Damp Proof Course, and we use it to line the inside of the planters we design and build. This is so no water can leach into the wood that could result in the wood decaying and rotting.
What is the on-site schedule of works?
X-Scapes ltd provide a detailed schedule of works, giving the client a timetable of when each element of the project is to be started and completed. Note- this could change due to unforeseen problems and weather conditions.
